Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors raising funds for burn victims

RANCHO CUCAMONGA -- Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors volunteers are on a mission this week to assist burn victims and their families.

In its 17th year, the Glendale-based nonprofit has helped thousands of burned survivors across the country who have suffered mental or physical injuries, and this week they're visiting schools, businesses, firestations and hospitals who have collected funds for the cause.

"I have two rules. One, we'll continue to do this as long as we have volunteers, and two, we'll do this as long as people can donate," said Tom Propst, executive director for Firefighters Quest and Glendale Fire Department's battalion chief.

Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors began in October 1996 after six firefighters were burned while trying to control the Southern California Malibu Brush Fire.

Two of those firefighters were Propst's coworkers - Scott French and Bill Jensen. Jensen sustained third-degree burns to 85 percent of his body and was not expected to live.

"When they were in the burn center I then saw that there was a great need for a support system that was lacking," he said.

Propst said the support network takes the financial burden off the shoulders of families and the victim.

"And that will also help that person heal quicker," he said.

On Saturday, the Glendale Fire Department will host Fire Service Day where a monument will be unveiled and dedicated to all firefighters, including those who have lost their lives in the line of duty as well as Jensen.